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Can You Use Niacinamide and Vitamin C Together?

As we continue to discover new skincare trends, there are two ingredients that have been making waves in the past few years: niacinamide and vitamin C. These two components have caught the attention of many beauty enthusiasts due to their incredible benefits for the skin. In this article, we will delve into how these two ingredients work together to give you radiant and youthful skin.

What is Niacinamide?

Niacinamide, also known as vitamin B3, is a water-soluble vitamin that can be found in food sources like meat, fish, and poultry. It is an essential nutrient that helps your body convert food into energy and plays a critical role in maintaining healthy skin. Studies have shown that niacinamide has numerous benefits, including improving skin texture, reducing fine lines and wrinkles, and preventing acne. “Niacinamide is a great ingredient for improving the overall health of the skin,” says Dr. Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist in New York City. “It can help to reduce inflammation, improve skin barrier function, and minimize the appearance of pores.”

How Does Niacinamide Work on the Skin?

When applied topically, niacinamide works by increasing the production of ceramides, which are natural lipids that help keep the skin barrier intact. A well-maintained skin barrier is critical in protecting the skin from external aggressors like pollution and UV rays. Niacinamide also helps regulate sebum production, which can lead to fewer breakouts and a smoother complexion. Additionally, niacinamide has anti-inflammatory properties that can help calm redness and irritation.

What is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a powerful antioxidant that can be found in fruits and vegetables like citrus fruits, kiwi, and bell peppers. It is an essential nutrient that aids in tissue repair, wound healing, and collagen synthesis. “Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage and brighten the appearance of the complexion,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, a dermatologist in New York City. “It can also help to reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and age spots.”

How Does Vitamin C Work on the Skin?

Vitamin C works by neutralizing free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to our skin cells. Free radicals can come from external factors like pollution and UV rays or internal factors like stress and inflammation. By neutralizing these free radicals, vitamin C helps prevent premature aging and damage to the skin. Additionally, vitamin C aids in collagen production, which is critical for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness.

Can You Use Niacinamide and Vitamin C Together?

Yes, you can use niacinamide and vitamin C together. In fact, they are two of the most popular and well-studied skincare ingredients, and they can work together to provide even better results.

Both niacinamide and vitamin C have their unique benefits for the skin, but when combined, they create a powerhouse duo that can transform your complexion. Here’s how they work together:

Boosts Collagen Production

As previously mentioned, both niacinamide and vitamin C aid in collagen production. When used together, they can help promote healthy collagen synthesis, leading to firmer and more youthful-looking skin.

Brightens and Evens Out Skin Tone

Vitamin C is well-known for its ability to brighten the skin and fade dark spots. However, when combined with niacinamide, it can enhance its brightening effects, resulting in a more even skin tone. A 2020 study published in the journal Dermatologic Therapy found that the combination of niacinamide and vitamin C was more effective in reducing the appearance of age spots and hyperpigmentation than either ingredient alone.

Protects Against Environmental Stressors

Both niacinamide and vitamin C have antioxidant properties that can help protect against environmental stressors like pollution and UV rays. However, when used together, they can provide a higher level of protection, making them an excellent combo for those who live in highly polluted areas or spend a lot of time outdoors.

How to Incorporate Niacinamide and Vitamin C into Your Skincare Routine

Start with a Clean Canvas

Begin your skincare routine with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt, makeup, and impurities from your skin. Pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Apply Vitamin C in the Morning

  • Vitamin C is typically used in the morning because it provides antioxidant protection against UV damage and environmental aggressors.
  • After cleansing, apply a vitamin C serum to your face and neck. Use a product with a concentration of 10-20% vitamin C for best results.
  • Allow the serum to absorb for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.

Follow with Niacinamide

  • Once vitamin c is dry, you can use niacinamide.
  • Niacinamide can be used both in the morning and evening, making it versatile for your routine.
  • Apply a niacinamide serum or moisturizer to your face and neck. Look for products containing 2-5% niacinamide.
  • Give it a minute or two to absorb into the skin.

Moisturize

  • Apply your regular moisturizer to lock in the hydration and active ingredients from the previous steps.
  • Choose a moisturizer suitable for your skin type, whether it’s dry, oily, or combination.

Don’t Forget Sunscreen (Morning Routine)

If you’re doing your skincare routine in the morning, finish with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. This is crucial to protect your skin from UV damage, especially when using vitamin C.

Evening Routine (Optional)

If you prefer to use niacinamide and vitamin C in your evening routine, simply follow the steps above, skipping the sunscreen

Note: To maximize the effectiveness of your skincare routine, it’s generally recommended to begin with your vitamin C serum first, especially as it often contains less stable forms of vitamin C. Additionally, a good rule of thumb in skincare is to apply products in order of thickness, so if you’re using a vitamin C-infused moisturizer rather than a serum, you should apply it after your niacinamide (assuming your niacinamide is in serum form). This sequence ensures that each product is absorbed and can work its magic most efficiently on your skin.

Tips and Tricks

  • Start slow: If you’re new to using niacinamide or vitamin C, start by using them every other day to avoid irritation.
  • Don’t mix niacinamide with acidic ingredients: Niacinamide works best at a pH of 5-7, so avoid mixing it with any acidic ingredients like AHAs or BHAs.
  • Store your vitamin C serum properly: Vitamin C can be unstable, so make sure to store it in a cool, dark place away from sunlight.

FAQs

  1. Can I use niacinamide and vitamin C in the morning and night? Yes, you can use them morning and night, but be sure to follow up with sunscreen in the morning as vitamin C can make your skin more susceptible to UV damage.
  2. Can niacinamide and vitamin C cause irritation? Both ingredients are generally well-tolerated by most people. However, if you have sensitive skin, it’s best to start with a low concentration and patch test before applying it all over your face.
  3. Can I use niacinamide and vitamin C with retinol? Yes, you can use them together, but it’s best to alternate their usage. Retinol can be quite drying on the skin, so using niacinamide and vitamin C on alternating nights can help prevent dryness and irritation.
  4. Is it safe to use niacinamide and vitamin C during pregnancy? While both ingredients are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, it’s always best to check with your doctor or dermatologist before trying out new skincare products.
  5. Can niacinamide and vitamin C help with acne? Yes, both ingredients have been shown to be effective at reducing acne and preventing breakouts. Niacinamide works by regulating sebum production, while vitamin C helps calm inflammation and protect against bacteria.

Final Takeaway

Niacinamide and vitamin C are two powerful ingredients that can work wonders for your skin. Whether you’re looking to brighten your complexion, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, or prevent acne, incorporating these two ingredients into your skincare routine can help you achieve your goals. Just remember to start slowly, avoid mixing niacinamide with acidic ingredients, and always wear sunscreen when using vitamin C. Here’s to radiant and youthful-looking skin!

The 14 best moisturizers for acne prone skin that soothe and protect

Are you looking for the best moisturizers for acne that will not disappoint you? Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. Looking for the right moisturizer that hydrates acne-prone skin without exacerbating breakouts or causing discomfort is challenging. That’s why we’ve spent time researching the greatest solutions on the market and picking some of the best. So, scroll down and check out  the 14 best moisturizers for acne-prone skin below.

Does moisturizer help with acne?

Yes, moisturizers can play a beneficial role in managing acne. While they don’t directly treat acne lesions, a good moisturizer can help maintain the skin’s hydration balance. Some acne treatments, such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, may cause dryness or irritation. Using a moisturizer helps counteract this dryness and prevents the skin from overproducing oil in response, which can contribute to acne.

It’s crucial to choose a non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) and oil-free moisturizer, especially if you have acne-prone skin. Look for products labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to reduce the risk of worsening acne. Additionally, some moisturizers contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin, which can help hydrate the skin without clogging pores.

Always consult with a dermatologist to determine the best skincare routine for your specific acne concerns.

The 14 good moisturizer for acne

Selecting the best face moisturizer for acne-prone skin may pose a challenge, but fear not. Keep scrolling to explore dermatologist-trusted, best-selling products. These products are made to give your skin the right amount of moisture and ingredients that fight acne. They help you get clear, healthy-looking skin. It doesn’t matter if your skin is oily, combination, or dry – we’ve got what you need.

Paula’s Choice CLEAR Oil-Free Moisturizer

Paula’s Choice Oil-Free Moisturizer is our top pick because it’s great for skin that tends to break out. Paula’s Choice has a special line just for acne-prone skin, and this moisturizer does a lot – it hydrates, makes pores smaller, and calms redness. It has helpful stuff like niacinamide for better skin tone, pumpkin and blueberry to soothe redness from acne, and ceramides to make your skin stronger. Just so you know, the biggest size is only two ounces.

Tiege Hanley ACNE Cream 

The Tiege Hanley ACNE Cream is great at keeping your skin moisturized without making acne worse. It’s made to not clog your pores, which helps treat existing acne and stop new pimples from forming. Since the cream is strong, it’s a good idea to be patient and do a small test on your skin, especially if it’s sensitive. This cream does more than just basic acne care – it targets current pimples and prevents new ones. It won’t clog your pores, which is important for people who often get acne. Also, it gives your skin moisture without making it greasy, which can make acne worse. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a bit expensive, so think about that when deciding if you want to buy it.

The Inkey List Omega Water Cream

This light gel moisturizer gives your skin hydration that lasts all day without feeling greasy. The main ingredient is the brand’s omega ceramide complex, full of good omegas that hydrate and fix your skin barrier. It also makes your skin more elastic and firm. With a lot of glycerin, it brings moisture into your skin without making it too wet. Niacinamide in it helps control oil and reduces redness. It takes a bit of time to soak into your skin completely.

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel Face and Neck Moisturizer 

Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Water Gel for Face and Neck is a good option if you have acne. It’s a light, not oily moisturizer that soaks in fast, leaving your skin feeling soft. It has hyaluronic acid, a natural moisturizer in your skin, which makes your skin softer and smoother by holding onto water. The unique gel formula is quick like a gel but moisturizes like a cream. It’s oil-free, won’t clog pores, and works for all skin types. Remember that this product might not provide sufficient moisture for extremely dry skin, may not be effective for severe acne, and the packaging can differ.

Sunday Riley C.E.O. Afterglow Moisturizer

For those of us dealing with acne-prone skin and dull complexion, Sunday Riley’s moisturizer is a great choice. Packed with brightening vitamin C, it tackles uneven skin tone and moisturizes with antioxidant-rich ingredients. Although it might look a bit greasy by the end of the day, it creates a radiant base for makeup and keeps your skin soft and hydrated, thanks to sodium hyaluronate. The added allantoin helps acne-prone skin stay healthy, but be cautious if you have very sensitive skin, as vitamin C can be irritating.

La roche posay moisturizer

If you want a moisturizer that keeps your skin safe from the sun, stays light on your skin, and won’t make you break out, check out La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer. We’ve been using it for a few weeks and it’s really good. It’s light and doesn’t make your skin oily, and dries quickly, so you can put on makeup right away. We like that it has niacinamide and glycerin, which are good for soothing and moisturizing your skin, especially if you have acne. It also protects your skin from the sun with SPF 30, which is important. But, there are a couple of things to know. It has a bit of a chemical smell that not everyone might like. Also, if your skin is very dry, this might not be hydrating enough on its own. And if you use too much, it might make your skin look a bit white, so use a little bit at a time.

Fresh Black Tea Advanced Age Renewal Cream

Acne doesn’t care how old you are, and if you have mature skin with clogged pores, you know that well. The Fresh Black Tea Anti-Aging Moisturizer is made with ingredients that won’t cause pimples. It has ceramides to make your skin stronger and squalane to keep it protected and moisturized. The hero ingredient, BT Matrix, is like retinol and comes from black tea and rambutan leaf extracts, helping your skin that’s weakened as you get older. The result is a great moisturizer that’s also anti-aging and doesn’t make your skin oily. However, it has a natural smell from the herbal ingredients and may not be suitable for everybody. 

Mighty Patch Hero Cosmetics Clear Collective Clarifying Prebiotic Moisturizer

We really like the Mighty Patch Hero Cosmetics Clear Collective Clarifying Prebiotic Moisturizer for people with acne-prone skin. It’s full of good stuff, doesn’t have any irritating colors or fragrances, and is easy on your skin. You can use it after cleansing and toning, and it’s great under makeup because it’s light and won’t cause breakouts. Just keep in mind that it might make your skin a bit oily, the tube might not be completely filled, and the product might come out too quickly.

TATCHA The Water Cream

Tatcha creates products that give your skin a lovely, radiant appearance without causing greasiness. The Water Cream is among these fantastic products, suitable for combination skin because of its light gel-cream formula that won’t clog pores. It contains Japanese leopard lily, which helps manage oil and soothe redness, promoting balanced skin renewal. The Hadasei-3 complex, featuring algae, green tea, and rice, fortifies your skin to retain moisture – like quenching your skin’s thirst. A noteworthy point is that the cream is packaged in a jar, which might not be the most hygienic option.

COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer

The COSRX Snail Mucin 92% Moisturizer is a light and gel-like cream that works well for repairing your skin. It contains snail mucin, hyaluronic acid, and betaine, all working together to make your skin less red and reduce fine lines. The snail stuff forms a barrier that makes your skin plump, hydrated, and calm. It’s an everyday cream that goes on smoothly and makes your skin look radiant. The main thing in this cream is snail secretion filtrate, which has “mucin” that’s excellent for keeping your skin extra moisturized. It helps fix damaged skin and adds moisture deep into your skin, making it perfect for dry or damaged skin. They get the snail stuff in a safe and eco-friendly way in a place where snails like to be, and then they use it to make the cream. However, it might not be suitable for you if you’re allergic to snails. Some people might find it feels a bit slimy, and it might not be strong enough for serious acne.

Cerave moisturizer for acne

This lightweight and oil-free lotion is designed to make your skin feel good. It has hyaluronic acid and niacinamide, which are like special ingredients that help keep your skin hydrated and calm. They won’t block your pores, which is a good thing. The lotion also has ceramides, which are like little helpers that strengthen your skin and make sure it doesn’t lose moisture. But, here are a few things to keep in mind: Some people might feel that it’s a bit slimy when they put it on, and if your skin is really, really dry, this lotion might not be enough for you. So, it’s good to know these things before you decide to use it.

Cetaphil gentle clear mattifying acne moisturizer

We’ve been using Cetaphil Face Moisturizer for a few weeks and our skin looks much better. The moisturizer is light and dries quickly, making our skin not shiny. It is good for sensitive skin and has 0.5% Salicylic Acid to stop breakouts and make skin better. With plant things and a prebiotic complex, it feeds our skin and soothes redness. This moisturizer, suggested by dermatologists, protects against five signs of sensitive skin: weak skin barrier, irritation, roughness, tightness, and dryness. But, it does have a smell and might not be good for really oily skin. Some people might find it makes their skin too dry.

Peach Slices Acne Oil-Free Moisturizer

This formula is proven by doctors and has fast-acting 0.5% salicylic acid. It helps clear and stop breakouts by cleaning the skin, getting rid of extra oil, and reducing whiteheads, blackheads, and swelling. Also, it has super moisturizing hyaluronic acid that doesn’t feel heavy. It’s great for making wrinkles and age lines look smaller, fixing the skin, and hiding acne scars. It works for all skin types, even if your skin is sensitive. The formula is clean, made from plants, and doesn’t have sulfates, alcohol, fragrance, parabens, gluten, and it’s vegan and cruelty-free. While it’s effective, it may leave your face a little shiny, similar to sunblock after a couple of hours. Also, it may not be the most moisturizing option for those with super dry skin.

Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Face Moisturizer

Considering a daily facial moisturizer is helpful for preventing breakouts and improving your skin, Aveeno Clear Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer is a good choice. We noticed a clear improvement in how our skin looked and felt. The formula is light and absorbs quickly, leaving our skin soft and smooth. It’s oil-free, non-comedogenic, and hypoallergenic, suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin. This moisturizer has 0.5% salicylic acid, which helps control and prevent acne blemishes. The Total Soy Complex in it evens skin tone and improves complexion for a healthier look. Despite having a mild scent, it could still irritate those with sensitive skin. While this formula generally works well for most people, it may not be effective for everyone, and some might still experience acne.

Considerations for Acne-Prone Skin Moisturizers

When picking a moisturizer for skin prone to acne, pay attention to a few things:

Ingredients

Check for non-comedogenic ingredients that won’t clog your pores. Good choices include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe vera, niacinamide, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.

Texture

Pick a light, oil-free moisturizer. Stay away from thick creams because they can block your pores, and that can lead to acne. 

SPF

If you’re often outside, get a moisturizer with at least SPF 30 to protect your skin from the sun.

Fragrance

Choose a fragrance-free moisturizer to avoid irritating your skin and causing breakouts.

Price

Think about your budget, but investing in a good-quality product can really help your skin. Balance cost with quality when making your choice.

FAQ

1. Is face moisturizer good for acne?

Yes, doctors might suggest using moisturizers alongside treatments for acne, especially when prescribing things like benzoyl peroxide or a retinoid. Also, there’s some evidence suggesting that moisturizers on their own can help improve signs and symptoms of acne.

2. Should I moisturize my face everyday if I have acne?

Yes, you should moisturize your face every day if you have acne, as long as you choose a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Put it on two times a day after washing your face. Don’t use things like astringents or rubbing alcohol because they can make your skin even drier.

3. Can acne be 100% cured?

Even if the medicine your doctor suggests helps your skin get better, it doesn’t cure acne. You have to keep using it regularly, even when your skin looks good, to stop acne from coming back. There’s no cure for acne, and products that say they can cure it are not telling the truth.

4. What age is acne the worst?

Almost 90% of teenagers, between 14 and 19 years old, deal with acne. If someone has a lot of acne that’s considered moderate to severe, they usually need extra help with acne treatments.

5. Does drinking water help with acne?

Drinking more water, about 68 extra ounces each day, really helps your skin stay hydrated. Being well-hydrated also boosts your immune system, helping your body fight infections, which can stop acne from happening.

Conclusion

Finding the right moisturizer for acne-prone skin is crucial for maintaining a healthy and clear complexion. Personal preferences, skin type, and specific needs should guide the choice of a moisturizer, ensuring it strikes the right balance between hydration and acne prevention. The best moisturizer is one that not only nourishes the skin but also complements an individual’s skincare routine, promoting overall skin health and well-being.